New Years Eve 2024 STREET PARTY

Eureka Springs, AR — The dawn of 2025 promises to shine brighter in Eureka Springs, where history and creativity meet for an unforgettable New Year’s Eve. Adding an exclamation to a holiday season that hosted over 50 events,  the town’s first-ever Bash with a Splash event will introduce a novel twist to traditional countdown celebrations: a water drop countdown, paying homage to the town’s legacy as a haven of healing springs.

Holidaytown USA Invents a New Splash

Long celebrated for its Victorian charm, dazzling holiday displays, and community-centered festivities, Eureka Springs—fondly known as “Holidaytown USA”—is adding another jewel to its crown with the Bash with a Splash. The new water drop event reflects the town’s knack for blending tradition with innovation, creating memorable experiences that honor its storied past while embracing the future. By transforming the essence of its famous springs into a creative New Year’s countdown, Eureka Springs continues to set itself apart as a premier holiday destination.

The idea was originally presented years ago; however, with travel to Eureka Springs now a year-round occurrence, the concept was brought back to life by the Eureka Springs Christmas Committee, Basin Park Hotel, and City department heads. “All the pieces came together pretty quickly after the support of the mayor and A&P,” a committee spokesperson shared. “After we decided we were a go, then we needed to figure out how to drop a water drop 70 feet from the hotel.”

Enter 80-year-old former Chicago steelworker Mike Japczyk, and it was full steam ahead. Japczyk added, “I like doing hard things.” With his expertise and determination, the ambitious vision of the water drop countdown became a reality.

A Carnival of Festivities

The evening kicks off at 8:30 PM with a colorful, carnival-style parade winding through downtown, setting the stage for an exhilarating night. Downtown Eureka Springs transforms into a lively hub, where revelers will gather for the free to be street party and poise themselves for a grand finale: a water drop countdown, combining lights, music, and the mesmerizing beauty of the springs.

Music lovers are in for a treat. At 9:00 PM, JukeBoxx Party Band will ignite the bandshell with an electric mix of soul, rock & roll, country, and pop hits. The crowd stays alive with the dance energy of MelonLight Studios, adding even more vibrancy and excitement between sets. The energy will build to a crescendo as Eureka Springs’ hometown favorites, Fossils of Ancient Robots, ring in the new year with a dynamic laser light show and infectious beats.

Magical Moments with Sean Paul

Adding a touch of wonder to the night, magician Sean Paul, owner of Intrigue Theater, will dazzle attendees as the evening’s master of ceremonies. Known for his captivating performances on shows like Penn & Teller Fool Us and America’s Got Talent, Sean Paul brings his world-renowned talent to make this celebration extraordinary.

Warmth, Cocoa, and a Pub Crawl

Braving the winter chill has never been more fun. Participating downtown shops will serve as warming stations, offering hot cocoa to keep guests cozy. For those who prefer to keep the party rolling, the New Year’s Eve Pub Crawl offers an adventurous twist. Using the WayHopper app, participants can check in at various bars and restaurants around town, earning a chance to win a grand prize: a return trip to Eureka Springs, complete with a two-night stay at the historic Basin Park Hotel.

The Water Drop

The highlight of the night, the Water Drop, will begin from the iconic Crow’s Nest perched atop the Basin Park Hotel. A custom-engineered water drop will fall 70 feet into an illuminated Ozarka Water Bucket placed at the base of the hotel. Upon impact, the splash will light up the park and signal the arrival of the new year, creating a dazzling and memorable moment for all in attendance.

The Free2Be Street Party serves as the grand exclamation point on a festive Christmas season in Eureka Springs (Christmasineureka.com), a celebration that has already dazzled with over 50 cherrful events. From twinkling parades and charming holiday markets to heartwarming concerts and community gatherings, the town came alive with the magic of the season. 

Join the Celebration, Stay for Awhile

The Bash with a Splash is more than just a New Year’s Eve party and street party—it’s a celebration of Eureka Springs’ enduring charm, creativity, and community spirit. Whether you’re drawn by the unique water drop, the eclectic music lineup, or the thrill of the pub crawl, there’s something for everyone and with the splash starts a 2025 full of fun activity. 

Eureka Springs isn’t a seasonal escape; it’s YEAR ROUND EUREKA offering an array of activities for every type of traveler. Winter visitors can explore miles of hiking and mountain biking trails, where waterfalls often flow at their most majestic and a bald eagle sighting is common. Lake Leatherwood Gravity Trails are a nationally significant component of the Oz Mountain Bike Trail system, offering thrilling challenges for biking enthusiasts and showcasing the region’s natural beauty.  A day trip to the Buffalo National River region to view its elk herd and hike the awe inspiring bluffs are less than an hour away.

For those seeking relaxation, Eureka Springs’ renowned day spas provide a tranquil retreat with treatments designed to rejuvenate both body and spirit. Meanwhile, the historic district delights shopping and art enthusiasts with its eclectic mix of boutiques, antique stores, and galleries showcasing local and regional talent. When hunger strikes, the town’s diverse dining scene offers everything from comfort food to international cuisine, while its inviting bars serve up expertly crafted drinks in a welcoming atmosphere.  All open year round.

This dynamic blend of activities and attractions makes Eureka Springs an ideal destination for winter getaways and the perfect setting for the magical Bash with a Splash celebration.

Visit VisitEurekaSprings.com/New-Years-Eve-Water-Drop for more details and event updates.

 

The Ozark Mountain Region

Eureka Springs, Arkansas, is located only 39 miles from Bentonville, home to the renowned Crystal Bridges Museum of American Art, and about 47 miles from Fayetteville, known for the University of Arkansas. Tulsa, Oklahoma is 147 West and Springfield, Missouri, lies just 90 miles to the north, while Branson, a hub for family entertainment and live shows, is only 50 miles away.